DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HCR 196 Reengrossed 2015 Regular Session Seabaugh
Directs the creation of an Indigent Defense Review Committee, within the La. Commission on Law
Enforcement and Criminal Justice, to study the caseload standards and guidelines of the La. Public
Defender Board in relation to the constitutionally required standards of indigent criminal defense
matters in light of limited fiscal resources, the Rules of Professional Conduct, and the fiscal priorities
and composition and structure of the board.
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
The Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Judiciary to the original bill:
1. Change the provision which states that the legislature appropriates funding for the LPDB
Board in excess of funds generated at the local level to funds appropriated in addition to
funds generated at the local level.
2. Make changes relative to the stated policies, duties, and responsibilities of the LPDB.
3. Add a statement that the state of La. has limited fiscal resources.
4. Clarify the directive of the Indigent Defense Review Committee (committee) as it relates
to the caseload standards and guidelines of the LPDB and its composition and structure
in accordance with the La. Rules of Professional Conduct.
5. Remove all references to the consideration by the committee of the limited fiscal
resources of the state when conducting its study.
6. Add a requirement that the membership appointments are made from a list of candidates
mutually agreed upon and submitted by the chief public defender and the president of the
La. District Attorney's Association.
The House Floor Amendments to the engrossed bill:
1. Add the secretary of DCFS to the Indigent Defense Review Committee.
2. Correct the reference for the state public defender.
3. Make technical changes.